NFL still plans to open training camps July 28
Despite growing coronavirus cases throughout portions of the United States this summer, the NFL still intends for players to report for training camp sessions on July 28.
Per ESPN's Dan Graziano, NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith confirmed the news during the same call that included Los Angeles Rams offensive tackle Andrew Whitworth explaining how he and his family came down with the coronavirus this offseason.
SNY's Ralph Vacchiano added that the timeline presented by Cleveland Browns center and NFLPA president J.C. Tretter suggests the players are unified as it pertains to canceling all preseason games due to concerns about potential exposure to individuals carrying the coronavirus.
Since the spring, Tretter and other union members have left no doubt they won't sign off of any return-to-play proposals unless they're satisfied with league safety guidelines. On Thursday, Houston Texans defensive superstar J.J. Watt tweeted his frustration over a lack of clarity about protocols for participating in the season amid the uncontrolled virus outbreak.
Negotiations between the NFL and NFLPA are ongoing as of July 17. Opening night for the regular season is still slated for Sept. 10.
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